WHEN TOYOTA launched its Lexus luxury-car lineup in 1989, it did so with two vehicles, the flagship LS 400 followed closely by the smaller ES 250. At the time Lexus officials thought the smaller ES wouldn't be as popular as the more luxurious sedan. But sales of the ES soared, creating what has become the near-luxury segment now populated by cars from several makers. Last year Lexus sold 67,577 ES models vs. just 26,043 LS models, So much for the marketing experts. Nearly 20 years later the Lexus lineup has eight different models - including a full slate of sport/utility vehicles - but the ES remains a stalwart, Like many of us as we move up in age, the ES has grown, too. The fifth-generation ES carries the 350 moniker, reflecting the 3,5-liter V6 now providing the power.
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